3 Days in Paris: Complete Travel Guide

After 11 years, I returned to Paris… and this time, I felt as though I saw it with fresh eyes—cleaner, brighter, more enchanting. The weather played its part too, as the clear skies guided us along the charming streets of delightful Paris. What wonderful memories!

I embarked on this adventure with my colleagues from work, and I must admit that organizing the itinerary for 10 different people, all first-time visitors to Paris, was quite a challenge. My goal was to find a balance between visiting the most important landmarks within a short timeframe and ensuring time for relaxed moments—enjoying meals at restaurants or simply sitting and socializing at a local boulangerie.

I started with the idea of booking accommodations close to the attractions we planned to visit. This allowed us to easily cover the distances on foot, giving us a chance to truly explore and absorb Paris—not just check off tourist spots from a list.

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Here is our itinerary for 3 magical days in Paris during Christmastime, when the streets and buildings are dressed in their most festive attire:

Day 1: Iconic Paris and Festive Charm

Galeries Lafayette → Opera Garnier → Place de la Concorde → Champs-Élysées → Arc de Triomphe → Trocadéro Gardens → Eiffel Tower → Christmas Market at Jardin des Tuileries

Distances:

Hotel → Galeries Lafayette: 1.4 km (20 min walk)

Galeries Lafayette → Opera Garnier: 280 m (4 min walk)

Opera Garnier → Place de la Concorde: 1.1 km (16 min walk)

Place de la Concorde → Champs-Élysées: 1.2 km (17 min walk)

Champs-Élysées → Arc de Triomphe: 1.4 km (20 min walk)

Arc de Triomphe → Trocadéro Gardens: 1.6 km (23 min walk)

Trocadéro Gardens → Eiffel Tower: 1.1 km (15 min walk)

Day 2: Cultural Gems and the Heart of Paris

Jardin des Tuileries → Louvre Museum → Île de la Cité (Notre Dame, Palais de la Conciergerie, Sainte-Chapelle) → University of Sorbonne → Panthéon → Jardin du Luxembourg → Latin Quarter

Distances:

Hotel → Jardin des Tuileries: 2.2 km (30 min walk)

Jardin des Tuileries → Louvre Museum: 800 m (10 min walk)

Louvre Museum → Notre Dame: 2.4 km (35 min walk along the Seine)

Notre Dame → Palais de la Conciergerie: 550 m (9 min walk)

Palais de la Conciergerie → Sainte-Chapelle: 4 m (1 min walk)

Sainte-Chapelle → University of Sorbonne: 650 m (10 min walk)

University of Sorbonne → Panthéon: 750 m (10 min walk)

Panthéon → Jardin du Luxembourg: 500 m (7 min walk)

Jardin du Luxembourg → Latin Quarter: 450 m (7 min walk)

Day 3: Artistic Montmartre

Moulin Rouge → Wall of Love (Mur des Je t’aime) → Place Dalida → La Maison Rose → Place du Tertre → Basilica of Sacré-Cœur

Distances:

Hotel → Moulin Rouge: 1.6 km (24 min walk)

Moulin Rouge → Wall of Love: 650 m (8 min walk)

Wall of Love → Place Dalida: 650 m (10 min walk)

Place Dalida → La Maison Rose: 600 m (9 min walk)

La Maison Rose → Place du Tertre: 240 m (3 min walk)

Place du Tertre → Basilica of Sacré-Cœur: 260 m (3 min walk)

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Accommodation: 9 Hotel Opera
The hotel we chose was 9 Hotel Opera, located at 14 Rue Papillon, 75009 Paris, France.

9 Hotel Opera in Paris is a modern hotel located in the 9th arrondissement, close to the city’s main attractions. It is just a few minutes’ walk from Opera Garnier, Galeries Lafayette, and the train stations Gare du Nord and Gare Saint-Lazare, making it easily accessible for travelers arriving by train. The hotel is also well-connected by the Poissonnière and Cadet metro stations, offering quick access to important landmarks such as the Louvre, Montmartre, and the Champs-Élysées.

Facilities and Services

  • Rooms: The 3-star hotel offers rooms decorated in a minimalist style, with a focus on comfort and functionality. The rooms are not very large, but the price-quality ratio is fair, especially given the hotel’s excellent location.
  • Breakfast: A varied buffet with fresh dishes is available to start the day off pleasantly.
  • Common Areas: The modern and relaxing common spaces include a lounge and bar for guests. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided in the hotel lounge.
  • Rate: The cost for a double room with breakfast included was €450 for 3 nights.

How we got to Paris: We traveled with Wizz Air from Cluj, landing at Paris Beauvais Airport. The distance from the airport to the hotel took 2.5 hours upon arriving in France, while on the way back, since we had a flight early in the morning and left at 5 AM, the journey took only 1.5 hours.

We chose a transfer option organized from home, which, in my opinion, was the best choice—more expensive, indeed, but much more comfortable considering the flight times. We practically traveled all night, leaving Sibiu to Cluj at 1:30 AM and catching the flight at 6 AM. We landed in Paris at 8:30 AM.

Cost: For two minibuses (11 people), the cost was €800 for both trips. The transfer, accommodation, and flight were booked through Dertour Travel Agency. Being a fairly large group, we preferred this more comfortable option for everyone.

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Restaurants:

This city break was all about the best food. We were lucky to find some amazing restaurants with extremely friendly staff. We didn’t do much research beforehand but adapted on the go, based on where we were and the meal times we needed to follow.

Restaurant Volfoni – The place where I had the best chicken dish of my life. The chicken, seasoned with truffle sauce and paired with caramelized onion purée, was the highlight of the evening.

The restaurant is located on the Champs-Élysées and is a popular choice for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. It combines a relaxed atmosphere with delicious dishes inspired by Italy’s culinary traditions. With retro design and a touch of dolce vita, this spot is perfect for dinners with friends, family gatherings, or even romantic dates.

For one glass of wine, a portion of truffle chicken with purée, and a tip, the total came to €31.

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Restaurant Le Lutèce located at 8 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75006 Paris, in the heart of the Latin Quarter, Le Lutèce is a traditional Parisian brasserie offering French cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients and a varied menu. Its classic décor and welcoming atmosphere make it suitable for any occasion, from breakfast to late dinners.

It was quite a challenge for us to find a spot in a restaurant in the Latin Quarter, as most venues are small. However, Le Lutèce is a large restaurant with extremely friendly staff. We enjoyed a fantastic dinner here, where our group tried dishes such as escargot, beef steak with blue cheese sauce, Saint Marcellin cheese fondue with olive oil, and crème brûlée.

Prices:

  • Cheese fondue: €13
  • Beef steak with blue cheese: €29
  • Foie gras: €26
  • Caviar: €29
  • Salads: €20
  • Burger: €21
  • Cappuccino: €7.50
  • Espresso: €2.90
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La Rotonde is an iconic restaurant located in the Montparnasse district of Paris, at 105 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris. Founded in 1911, it is famous for its bohemian atmosphere and historical connections with 20th-century artists and writers, such as Picasso and Hemingway.

The restaurant offers traditional French cuisine, with dishes like escargots, foie gras, and steaks, served in an elegant and classic Art Deco-inspired décor. In addition to the menu items, they also feature daily specials.

We opted for the daily specials, alongside onion soup, with our main courses being beef steak and oven-baked chicken leg, priced at €22 per dish.

Menu Highlights and Prices:

  • Onion soup: €13.50
  • Salads: €20
  • Beef tartare: €25
  • Fish dishes: €33
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La Crème de Paris
La Crème de Paris is a crêperie located right next to Notre Dame de Paris, offering a variety of both sweet and savory crêpes, galettes, and waffles. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and dishes made from fresh ingredients, including natural juices and homemade ice cream. We enjoyed crêpes with chicken and mushrooms, crêpes with salmon, as well as sweet specialties, such as crêpes and waffles with chocolate and fruits.

Top 20 Must-See Tourist Attractions:

  1. Galeries Lafayette

Located on Boulevard Haussmann in the heart of Paris, Galeries Lafayette is a true symbol of luxury and Parisian refinement. Opened in 1893, this impressive shopping complex has become one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations. The Art Nouveau-style building is famous for its stained glass dome, which houses a carefully curated selection of top fashion brands, perfumes, and luxury products.

But Galeries Lafayette isn’t just for shopping—it’s a visual experience, thanks to its spectacular architecture and intricate design details. Additionally, it offers an unforgettable view of the city from its terraces, making it the perfect place to relax after a shopping session.

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2.Opéra Garnier, also known as Palais Garnier, is an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Paris, a symbol of French opulence and refinement. Built between 1861 and 1875 under the direction of architect Charles Garnier, this stunning building is a remarkable example of French Baroque style.

Its imposing façade and grandiose interiors, including the famous marble staircase and the ceiling painted by Marc Chagall, are just a few of the elements that attract visitors. Opéra Garnier is not just a venue for performances, but also a museum that offers a fascinating insight into the theatrical world and the traditions of opera. With an impressive performance hall that can accommodate up to 2,000 spectators, this is a place where art, music, and history seamlessly intertwine.

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3. Place de la Concorde is one of the largest and most impressive squares in Paris, located at the junction of Champs-Élysées and Rue de Rivoli. Inaugurated in 1772, this square has witnessed significant historical moments, such as the execution of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution.

At the center of the square stands an Egyptian obelisk, brought from Luxor in 1836, adding an exotic and monumental touch against the backdrop of the classical architecture surrounding it. The square is encircled by elegant buildings and offers a spectacular view toward the Tuileries Garden and the Arc de Triomphe. Today, Place de la Concorde is an iconic meeting spot and a central point for Parisian tourism, thanks to its historical monuments, fountains, and the defining obelisk.

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4. Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous boulevards in the world, located in the heart of Paris, connecting Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Positioned at the intersection of history and modernity, the boulevard is a top destination for those who want to enjoy shopping, gastronomy, and entertainment. The theatres, cafés, and luxury restaurants are just some of the attractions that make Champs-Élysées a renowned place for strolling.

Throughout the year, the boulevard hosts large events, parades, and in December, it offers a unique view thanks to the spectacular lights that adorn it. Champs-Élysées is not only a place for shopping and relaxation but also a symbol of Parisian refinement, reflecting the city’s connection to its history and its vibrant modernity today.

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5. Arc de Triomphe, located at the western end of Champs-Élysées, is a symbol of Paris, an imposing monument that celebrates the history and victories of the French army. Built between 1806 and 1836 under the commission of Napoleon Bonaparte, the Arc de Triomphe rises 50 meters and is adorned with sculptures representing scenes from historical battles and heroic figures, a tribute to French soldiers.

Under the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a place of remembrance dedicated to those fallen in wars, marked by the eternal flame. Visitors can climb to the observation platform to enjoy a splendid panorama of Paris, including views of Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. The Arc de Triomphe is not just a historical monument but also a landmark of the French capital, attracting millions of tourists every year.

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6. Trocadéro Gardens, located on the right bank of the Seine, are an iconic spot in Paris, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. Designed in the French style, these gardens are part of the architectural complex that includes Palais de Chaillot, a palace built for the 1937 International Exposition.

Divided into terraces and promenade areas, the Trocadéro Gardens are adorned with fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured lawns, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and beauty. It is an ideal place to admire the Eiffel Tower from a unique perspective, making it a popular attraction for both tourists and locals.

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7. Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, is one of the most recognized structures in the world. Built between 1887 and 1889 by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the Exposition Universelle, its initial purpose was temporary, but it quickly became a symbol of technological innovation and industrial progress. Standing at 330 meters, the tower offers a spectacular view of Paris, with visitors able to ascend to the three levels to enjoy the city panorama.

Its iron structure, featuring elegant lines and innovative design for the time, continues to fascinate millions of tourists annually. At night, the Eiffel Tower is spectacularly illuminated, becoming a symbol of Parisian romance and the light that defines the city. The price for the ascent is approximately €26.90 per person, for access by elevator and stairs to the second level.

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8. Jardin des Tuileries is one of the most elegant and historic gardens in Paris, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. Created in the 16th century as a royal garden for the Tuileries Palace, it was redesigned by the famous landscape architect André Le Nôtre, becoming a representative example of formal French gardens.

The symmetrical pathways, surrounded by trees and manicured lawns, are adorned with sculptures, offering a harmonious blend of nature and art. Visitors can relax by the picturesque fountains or enjoy the ambiance of a garden café while admiring the spectacular view towards the Arc de Triomphe.

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9. The Louvre Museum, located in the heart of Paris, is the largest and one of the most renowned art museums in the world. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when it was built as a fortress, and later transformed into a royal palace. In 1793, after the French Revolution, the Louvre was opened as a public museum, becoming a symbol of French culture and heritage.

The museum is famous for its glass pyramid, designed by architect I. M. Pei, which has become a symbol of modernity in contrast to the museum’s historic complex. The Louvre houses an impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art, including famous masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. With a structure organized into eight departments, the museum’s collections cover a wide range of periods and civilizations, from Antiquity to modern European art.

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10. Notre-Dame de Paris, a symbol of Gothic architecture, is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. Located on the Île de la Cité, in the heart of Paris, its construction began in 1163 and lasted almost two centuries. The cathedral is distinguished by its imposing twin towers, spectacular stained glass windows, including the famous rose window, and impressive architectural details that make it a true monument of French Gothic.

Throughout its history, Notre-Dame has witnessed major events, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte and the beatification of Joan of Arc. Although it suffered a devastating fire in 2019 that destroyed its roof and symbolic spire, the cathedral remains a symbol of resilience.

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11. The Panthéon in Paris, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, is a symbol of French history and culture. Originally built in the 18th century as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, it was transformed into a secular mausoleum during the French Revolution.

Its neoclassical design, inspired by the Pantheon of Rome, with its imposing dome, offers spectacular views of the city. The interior houses the tombs of some of France’s most emblematic figures, such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, and Marie Curie, symbolizing a tribute to those who contributed to the intellectual and cultural heritage of the country. The Panthéon is more than just a resting place; it is a space that evokes national pride and the Enlightenment spirit of France.

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12. Jardin du Luxembourg, located in the heart of Paris, is one of the most charming gardens, a place where classical elegance perfectly blends with the tranquility of an urban retreat. Created in the 17th century at the initiative of Queen Marie de Medici, the garden surrounds the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the Senate of France. Among its famous attractions are the Medici Fountain, the central lake where children can sail on boats, and various playground areas. Jardin du Luxembourg is not only a place of relaxation for locals but also a favorite destination for visitors who come to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere in the midst of the bustling capital.

13. The Latin Quarter, situated on the left bank of the Seine, is one of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in Paris. With its bohemian and intellectual atmosphere, this district has been the center of academic life for centuries, housing renowned institutions such as the Sorbonne University. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are filled with cafes, bookstores, restaurants, and bistros, where students, professors, and visitors gather to discuss ideas or enjoy an espresso.

The district preserves its medieval charm, with picturesque squares, historic churches, and famous monuments, such as the Pantheon and the Arc de Triomphe at Place de l’Observatoire. This combination of past and present creates a unique atmosphere, and the eclecticism of the places makes it a beloved, always vibrant area.

14. Moulin Rouge is one of the most famous cabarets in the world, located in the Montmartre district of Paris. Opened in 1889, it quickly became a symbol of Parisian nightlife and entertainment, being the birthplace of the famous can-can dance. Over the decades, Moulin Rouge has been frequented by notable personalities and has inspired numerous films and works of art, cementing its status as an iconic place of bohemian Paris.

Today, visitors can attend spectacular performances with dazzling costumes, dynamic choreography, and vibrant music, continuing the venue’s tradition of offering a unique and energetic experience full of magic and glamour. Moulin Rouge remains a symbol of Parisian extravagance and a place that attracts lovers of art and entertainment from all over the world.

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15. Montmartre, located on a hill in the northern part of Paris, is a place with a special charm, famous for its bohemian atmosphere and the inspiration it provided to artists, including Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh. Among the most important attractions of Montmartre are the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, located at the top of the hill, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The district was also a center for the artistic revolution in the 19th and early 20th centuries, being the birthplace of numerous art movements and styles. Today, Montmartre remains a vibrant, lively place, where artists still display their works on the pedestrian streets, and visitors can experience the authentic Parisian atmosphere.

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16. The Wall of Love (Mur des Je t’aime), located in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the Montmartre district, is a remarkable artwork dedicated to universal love. Created by artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, the wall is decorated with 311 declarations of love in 250 different languages and dialects. Each section of the wall expresses “I love you” in unique ways, symbolizing cultural diversity and the universal beauty of love. Made of sandstone tiles, this romantic and symbolic place attracts couples and tourists from around the world, who come to express their love or to appreciate this artistic tribute dedicated to the universal feeling of love.

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17. Place Dalida is a picturesque square located in the Montmartre district, dedicated to one of the most beloved figures in French music, Dalida. The singer, who influenced French music and culture for decades, lived nearby, and the square has become a pilgrimage site for her fans and beyond. At the center of the square stands a bronze statue of Dalida, depicted in an elegant and solemn posture, paying tribute to her brilliant career.

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18. La Maison Rose is an iconic establishment located in the Montmartre district of Paris. With its distinctive pink facade, this restaurant has become a symbol of the bohemian and artistic atmosphere of the area. Opened in the 19th century, it was frequented by artists like Pablo Picasso and Maurice Utrillo. Today, La Maison Rose remains a popular spot among tourists and locals alike, attracting visitors with its vibrant color and its historical connection to the artistic culture of Montmartre. This place continues to symbolize the bohemian Parisian life of that era.

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19. Place du Tertre is a vibrant and lively square situated at the heart of the Montmartre district in Paris. Known for its bohemian artistic atmosphere, this place is famous for the many artists who display their works in the open air, turning the square into a veritable open-air museum. Tourists and locals have the chance to purchase portraits, paintings, and sketches created on the spot, all set in a particularly picturesque setting. Located atop the Montmartre hill, the square offers a stunning view of Paris. It has been a frequent meeting point for famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh since the 19th century. Today, Place du Tertre continues to be a symbol of Montmartre’s artistic tradition, acting as a meeting place for artists and art lovers alike.

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20. Basilica Sacré-Cœur, situated at the top of Montmartre Hill, is one of the most iconic churches in Paris, offering a spectacular view of the city. Construction began in 1875 and was completed in 1914, designed in the Romanesque-Byzantine style as a symbol of national reconciliation after the Franco-Prussian War. Its white travertine facade radiates sunlight, and its impressive dome stands out from afar. The interior of the basilica houses large mosaics, including one of the largest mosaics in Europe, depicting “Christ in His Glory.”

Sacré-Cœur is not only a place of worship but also a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. Those who make the ascent to the top of Montmartre Hill can enjoy not just the architectural beauty of the church but also an unforgettable panoramic view of Paris.

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Paris dressed in holiday attire.

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